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End of Daylight-Saving Time + Holidays = Depression in Twenty Percent of Women

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, nearly six out of 100 people in the U.S. experience winter depression or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Another 10 to 20 percent may experience some mild form of SAD. Research shows it is 75% more common in women ages 15 to 55, especially those who live in areas where winter days are very short or there are big changes in the amount of daylight in different seasons.

"During the fall and winter months of decreased sunshine and added stress around the holiday season, many women start to feel the 'winter blues,'" said Jacqueline Dawes, founder and owner Brookhaven Retreat, a premier holistic women-only treatment facility for emotional trauma and addiction. "Often, we see deep-rooted feelings of depression surface during this time of the year, but we want women to know that they are not alone and that there are resources to help."

Common symptoms of SAD include a change in appetite, weight gain, fatigue, tendency to oversleep, irritability and avoidance of social situations. The symptoms tend to start around September of each year lasting until April, and seem to be at their worst in the darkest months. Researchers believe the problem stems from a lack of bright light in the winter and have proven that bright light makes a difference to the brain chemistry, although to what extent is unclear.

SAD is more than just a case of 'feeling down'. It is an actual form of depression and it's important to see a doctor if you think you are experiencing any of these symptoms," said Arun Jethanandani, M.D., psychiatrist and medical director of Brookhaven Retreat.

    A few suggestions to help with Seasonal Affective Disorder:

    -- Keep yourself organized to maintain a regular routine
    -- Increase the amount of light that surrounds you
    -- Watch your diet
    -- Exercise
    -- Take time for your mental health

Brookhaven Retreat is a comprehensive, multidisciplinary treatment facility that helps women overcome emotional trauma and addiction challenges. For more information on Seasonal Affective Disorder and Brookhaven Retreat, call 1-877-817.3422 or visit www.brookhavenretreat.com/blog

About Brookhaven Retreat

Brookhaven Retreat is a unique, voluntary residential treatment facility specially designed to help women overcome emotional trauma or addiction challenges. The fully accredited and certified dual-diagnosis center is America's premier treatment center for emotional trauma and addiction and offers female-specific treatment. Located on 48 beautiful acres in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, it offers modern, holistic care with compassion and respect from a highly trained expert staff of licensed therapists, physicians, registered nurses, nurse practitioners and licensed practical nurses. Visit www.brookhavenretreat.com for more information.

SOURCE Brookhaven Retreat